A porter or bellhop at a hotel is normally the first person to have contact with the hotel guest. In this respect, it is important for the porter to embody the style and level of service the hotel is offering its guests. Physical appearance, a positive first impression and friendly demeanour are therefore important for this job. Some international hotels require porters to be able to speak one or more foreign languages.
Most hotels will have special training sessions for porters, providing training on how to properly greet guests and handle their luggage. Attention to detail and the ability to understand instructions are important to provide speedy check-in and check-out of guests.
The job holder’s duties will include carrying the guest’s luggage to their room, explaining some of the feature of the hotel room, being able to make small talk with the guest and to answer any questions the guest may have. Some hotels will require persons in the role to perform tasks a concierge would perform, such as making restaurant reservations.
The bulk of the position holder’s income will come from tips, and annual salaries start from around C
$18,000.